Creamy Squash Soup Recipe
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This creamy squash soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly days. Rich and velvety, it's made with fresh squash and aromatic herbs.
This creamy squash soup recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that warms the soul. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a starter for your holiday gatherings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Smooth and creamy texture that comforts the palate
- Nutritious and packed with vitamins from fresh squash
- Easily customizable with your favorite herbs and spices
The Benefits of Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also a powerhouse of nutrition. It's rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and immune function. Additionally, the high fiber content helps to support digestive health, making this soup a wholesome choice for any meal.
Incorporating squash into your diet can also promote heart health due to its potassium content, which helps regulate blood pressure. Enjoying this creamy squash soup is a delightful way to reap these benefits while indulging in a comforting dish.
Customizing Your Soup
One of the best aspects of this creamy squash soup is its versatility. You can easily tailor the flavors to suit your palate by experimenting with different herbs and spices. Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick, or try incorporating fresh thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
If you're looking to add more protein to your meal, consider blending in some cooked lentils or chickpeas. This not only enhances the nutritional profile but also adds a satisfying heartiness to the soup.
Pairing Suggestions
This creamy squash soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, serve it alongside crusty bread or a fresh green salad. The crunchy texture of a salad complements the smoothness of the soup, creating a delightful contrast.
For a more indulgent experience, top your soup with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of roasted pumpkin seeds. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also provide an extra layer of texture that elevates the overall dish.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth process.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the Squash and Broth
Mix in the diced butternut squash, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer to a blender in batches and blend carefully.
Add Coconut Milk
Stir in the coconut milk and nutmeg. Heat through for another 5 minutes, adjusting seasoning to taste.
Serve
Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm.
Enjoy your delicious homemade creamy squash soup!
Storage and Reheating Tips
This creamy squash soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
If you prefer to make it in advance, this soup also freezes beautifully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and it will keep for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
For a cozy gathering, serve the creamy squash soup in small mugs as an appetizer. This allows guests to enjoy a warm, comforting bite before the main meal. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a swirl of coconut milk on top for an elegant touch.
Consider complementing the soup with a wine pairing. A light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, balances the richness of the soup while enhancing its flavors. This creates a delightful dining experience that everyone will love.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of squash?
Yes, you can use pumpkin or acorn squash as a substitute.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly as it uses coconut milk.
→ How can I make this soup spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños while cooking.
→ Can I freeze leftover soup?
Absolutely! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Creamy Squash Soup Recipe
This creamy squash soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly days. Rich and velvety, it's made with fresh squash and aromatic herbs.
Created by: Vanessa Doyle
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Mix in the diced butternut squash, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer to a blender in batches and blend carefully.
Stir in the coconut milk and nutmeg. Heat through for another 5 minutes, adjusting seasoning to taste.
Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 3g